Sara Clemens has joined North Dakota State University Extension’s Center for 4-H Youth Development as the outdoor education and shooting sports specialist.

Clemens has served as the NDSU Extension agriculture and natural resources agent in Bottineau County since 2016.

Before joining NDSU Extension, Clemens taught agricultural education and served as an FFA advisor at Rolette High School.

“I'm excited about the opportunity to deepen my knowledge, especially in areas like air rifle,” says Clemens. “I look forward to growing the program in shotgun, air rifle, air pistol and potentially introducing new disciplines for 4-H youth to explore.”

In addition to engaging youth in shooting sports, Clemens also looks to provide opportunities in other outdoor education areas such as entomology, mineralogy and outdoor skills.

Since beginning in early November, she’s been thrilled to see passionate volunteers and new faces joining as 4-H shooting sports instructors.

With nearly 30 years of 4-H involvement — as a member, volunteer and parent — Clemens’ lifelong connection to 4-H has been a driving force in her career and personal life. Her family has a long history with the program, and she became a member as soon as she was old enough.

She says that even though she’s not in her home state of South Dakota, 4-H remains her home.

In addition to her work with shooting sports, Clemens serves as the youth director for the Central North Dakota Rabbit Breeders, where she plans youth activities for rabbit shows and mentors young exhibitors.

She studied agricultural education at NDSU, earning her Bachelor of Education degree in 2011 and her master’s degree in 2021. Additionally, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in animal science from South Dakota State University in 2009 where she was a founding member of the SDSU equestrian team.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Dec. 9, 2024

Source: Sara Clemens, 701-877-2589, sara.clemens@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-7881, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu